Kheer: A Creamy Rice Pudding

Kheer is a popular Indian dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and aromatic spices. It’s often served warm or cold and can be customized with various toppings like nuts, raisins, or saffron.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice, washed and drained
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands, soaked in warm milk
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pistachios
• 1/4 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice: In a saucepan, combine rice, milk, and saffron strands. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice is tender and the milk has thickened.
2. Add sugar and spices: Stir in sugar and cardamom powder. Simmer for a few more minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Add toppings: Stir in chopped almonds and raisins.
4. Serve: Serve the kheer warm or cold.

For a richer flavor, you can add a few drops of rose water or a pinch of saffron.

Would you like to try a variation on this classic dessert, like adding fruits or nuts?